Coffee.

A popular beverage that seems to have much controversy around whether or not it’s “good for you.” I’m happy to report for all of my fellow beloved java lovers out there that …YES! Coffee is good for you. It offers a slew of benefits and nutrients that can in fact help support your health and fitness goals. So let’s review some of them!

In addition to studies linking coffee drinkers with a much lower risk of several serious diseases…. Coffee is also loaded with antioxidants and beneficial nutrients that can improve your health.

Nutrients: A single cup of coffee contains Vitamins B2 and B5, Manganese, Potassium, Magnesium and Niacin.

Antioxidants: In addition to these nutrients, studies show that most people (who consume a standard Western diet) get more antioxidants from coffee than they do from both fruits and vegetables... combined.

Aids in Weight Loss: Caffeine is found in almost every fat burner supplements because of its proven ability to aid in fat burning and boost metabolism. No need to take a supplement: just enjoy a strong cup of coffee about 30 minutes prior to working out!

Makes You Happier: I mean, who ISN’T happy when they are enjoying their fresh cup of coffee of the day?! A 2011 Harvard study found that women who drank 4 or more cups per day had a 20% lower risk of becoming depressed. Coffee really does equal happiness… who knew?!

It’s important to note that the health benefits we’re referencing are exclusive to coffee - not lattes or frappuccino’s. Although those delicious concoctions offer a creamy, richly flavored beverage… we can’t ignore the additive calories, carbs and fats within these beverages. And while there’s no harm in enjoying a “treat” of this nature every so often, enjoying one on a regular basis could be counter-intuitive to your goals.

So… what are some options for those who enjoy coffee, but simply aren’t fans of drinking it black?

PLENTY!

Like cream in your coffee? Adding almond milk, coconut milk or another lower calorie milk of your choice to your brew. These options will offer some creaminess without the added carbs.

Like your coffee sweetened? Skip the refined sugars and consider a natural sweetening source such as honey, stevia leaf extract, or coconut sugar.

Love your flavored coffee creamers? There are plenty of options popping on the shelves these days for natural creamers that provide delicious flavor with minimal ingredients.

NOTE: This is a place to practice “moderation”; while these options are better (cleaner) than regular coffee creamers, they still contain sugar, whole milk, etc. If you love coffee creamers, your best friend will become the tablespoon serving utensil; measure out a serving (or two!) so that you genuinely know how much you’re consuming.

The best part?

These can be enjoyed hot or cold…

OR room temperature if you’re like me because… yeah… life happens. Morning routines - getting the kids off to school, getting yourself to work, chores, errands - are chaotic and easily create distraction from that beautiful cup o’ joe that we look forward to each day.

Bottom Line:

Steamy Hot, Iced Cold, or Leftover on the counter from the morning… enjoy that cup of coffee with minimal guilt and ultimate happiness.

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EXERCISE (specific to your unique life!),

NUTRITION (specific for your unique body and goals!)

Accountability and mindset coaching

An approach that takes your long term health and lifestyle into account

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